Recognising the significance and outstanding efforts of individuals from within the Australian superyacht industry, the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) and Superyacht Australia has today announced the Australian Superyacht Industry Hall of Fame award will be re-introduced in 2013.

An initiative first introduced at the annual Australian Superyacht Awards in 2008 by the former peak body for the industry Superyacht Base Australia (SYBA). AIMEX will reintroduce this award as they see this as an excellent platform for well-deserved recognition of the significant achievements of an individual’s dedication to the industry.

The 2008 Hall of Fame Award inductee was Donald B Johnston, founder of Oceanfast. Mr Johnston first registered OCEANFAST in 1985 which produced a total of 15 luxury yachts and a further 7 luxury ferries, half a dozen 70 to 100 foot private vessels and educated hundreds in the skills of high quality ship construction before being taken over by Austal. 2008 was the first and only year the Hall of Fame award was organised. 

Last year AIMEX and Superyacht Australia introduced three award categories for the superyacht industry within their annual awards scheme. The Club Marine Australian Marine Industry Export and Superyacht Awards incorporate three categories for the superyacht industry including Superyacht industry Business of the Year – Manufacturer, Superyacht Industry Business of the Year – Service Provider and Superyacht Industry Champion (an individual award). Award applications are due on 1 April.

The Hall of Fame Award is a prestigious award open to outstanding individuals who have dedicated over ten years to the Australian superyacht industry. Nominations for this award should be directed to Superyacht Australia.

The Hall of Fame Award and Club Marine Australian Marine Industry Export and Superyacht Awards will be announced at the industry Gala Dinner on Tuesday 21 May during the ASMEX Conference at Sanctuary Cove’s InterContinental Resort, Queensland.